Support the Safe Freight Act

by
James Farnan | Mar 31, 2017

Safety can’t be learned by accident. On Wednesday, March 29, 2017, 38 Union Pacific Railroad freight cars derailed in a Texas town. Authorities said the diesel spill from two ruptured cars was contained and not a danger to the public. No injuries were reported in the incident. This is just another example as to why Congress must pass the Safe Freight Act (H.R. 233), which would require freight trains to be operated by at least two individuals - a certified conductor and a certified engineer. This requirement is vital to ensure the safety of communities across the nation. Freight trains are typically 1-3 miles long and frequently stop unexpectedly. As a result, two crewmembers are necessary to open blocked rail crossings.

On July 6, 2013, an unattended freight train carrying 72 tank cars of crude oil derailed and exploded in Lac-Mégantic, Quebec, killing 47 people and destroying much of the town. The train, operated by a single crewmember, rolled away because the train engineer was unable to secure the train on his own. Consolidating vital responsibilities into one individual only worsens the most critical safety issue facing the rail industry today - high levels of fatigue among operating employees which contribute to additional train accidents.

Ridge & Downes supports the Safe Freight Act (H.R. 233) and respectfully asks that you contact your Representative today and ask for support as well. To find your U.S. Representative, click here.

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